Unique photoshoot location: Red rocks amphitheater
The Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison Colorado is always a great place to do a photoshoot especially when you want to portray that mountain lifestyle. There are a lot of beautiful spots with mountain ranges in the background, the steps at the amphitheater and, of course, the red rocks. I often prefer to start at the upper most lot called the plains view lot because it is mostly private compared to other lots. There is also a covered picnic area where clients can change and put their things. The covered area works really well for multiple outfit changes that often happen with branding photoshoots. The nearby outhouse is also convenient when you really need to go. The steps at the amphitheater are great for getting fitness photos. Best of all is that there are no fees to pay do a photoshoot here.
I can’t help it, I love to take my off camera flash. I like to shoot natural light as well as light assisted. If there is too much wind then I would have to have someone come help hold lights. It can get really windy up here. Golden hour never disappoints but just keep in mind where the sun will be. I like to use a sun tracker app called Sun Seeker. I will also bring a pop up tent in case anyone needs to change outside of their car. I would start off by parking at any of their designated lots and see where you can explore from there.
All the areas are easily accessible. I like to show up on days when there are no concerts scheduled (check that ahead of time!), but keep in mind that there are often hikers and families that like to sight see so it might not be as private as you’d like. More people means that parking in smaller lots might be an issue. However, larger lots have plenty of parking and sometimes meeting there then taking one car to another location also works.
There are a lot of Rangers doing security at this location so staying compliant to all the rules posted is a good idea. On quieter days I’ve been able to pull my car over to the side and shoot in certain spots I liked. On busier days and weekends it’s harder to do, so it helps to be quick. Do not park too long in areas where you are not allowed because the rangers will kick you out. I hope my images on this short blog will show you the type of shots you can get at this near Denver location. I’ve been sharing more of my locations because, as a photographer, it’s often hard to get out and scout places all the time and having recommendations of where to start looking would have helped me when starting out.
